Teenagers to quiz Defence Minister

12 May 2003

Australia's role in the Iraq conflict will be on the agenda when Defence Minister Senator Robert Hill faces questions from a national panel of students this Wednesday at the National Museum of Australia.

Senator Hill's earlier appearance at the National Museum's Talkback Classroom program was postponed because of his trip to the Middle East.

On Wednesday, in front of a live studio audience, three students will seek Senator Hill's views on the reconstruction of Iraq, Australia's alliance with the United States and controversial recent military purchases.

The students are Shaun Blacker from Thornbury Darebin College, Thomastown (VIC), Alexia Skok from University High School, Ascot Vale (VIC) and Simon Atkinson from Lake Ginninderra College, Canberra (ACT).

Talkback Classroom, now in its third year, allows senior secondary students from around Australia to participate in questioning politicians and key public figures on issues of national and international significance.

Other guests this year include Education Minister Brendan Nelson on Public Education Day, 22 May; Prime Minister John Howard and Greens leader Senator Bob Brown.

NOTE: Camera and program sound will be available on the Museum's bearer.